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Brooklin – Head Office
P.O. Box 370 Hwy. #12 STN Brooklin
Brooklin, ON L1M 1B5
T 800.655.3430
P 905.655.3311
F 905.655.3847
Newmarket
18599 Yonge St. N.
Newmarket, ON L3Y 4V8
T 888.407.6443
P 905.895.2373
F 905.898.3264
Huntsville
P.O. Box 5449 Hwy. #11
Huntsville, ON P1H 2K8
T 800.264.3302
P 705.789.2338
F 705.789.9829
Haliburton
P.O. Box 818 Hwy. #121
Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0
T 800.273.9084
P 705.457.1395
F 705.457.2587
A Guide to Selecting and Maintaining a Healthy Septic SystemBrought to you by: Brooklin Concrete – A division of Clearford Industries Inc. ©2008 03/08
A Safe, Natural Process
A septic system works using natural
processes. Billions of naturally occurring
microscopic organisms work efficiently
to break down household waste.
These bacteria maintain a healthy
septic system.
There are several types of bacteria–some
that work in the septic tank, and others
that work outside the tank. The bacteria
in the tank do the heavy work and
do not need oxygen. The septic tank
provides the ideal environment by
holding everything for a length of time
to allow bacterial action to work,
generally a minimum of three days.
As a result, the tank must be sized
accordingly. The bacteria that do the
secondary treatment need oxygen
to work efficiently. These bacteria are
found in the weeping bed or other
alternative systems. Since these
organisms are key to making any
septic system work, we build our
systems accordingly.
Uncovering the Mysteries
Although they’re located well beneath
our feet, septic systems are not as
mysterious as many people think.
Today’s modern septic systems are
an efficient, safe and environmentally-
friendly means of treating household
sewage and wastewater.
Since septic systems treat sewage on
site, traditionally they have been key
in rural areas and in remote
locations such as cottages and other
recreational properties. In fact, in
many new-concept suburban neigh-
bourhoods throughout North America,
effluent sewers–which are really a
network of septic tanks–are the
preferred method of choice for cost,
efficiency and environmental reasons.
Septic systems are not difficult to
maintain. Potential problems with
septic systems can result from incorrect
installation, poor maintenance or
household misuse. But those who
choose quality components, have
their systems professionally installed
and practice some preventative
maintenance, find their septic systems
to be effective, efficient and trouble-free
for many years.
Getting Connected
Each home’s wastewater
system is connected to
its septic tank. The tank
is installed in the ground
outside the house. When
planning your installation,
ensure that no other water
(such as water from sump
pumps, downspouts or
groundwater) can enter
the septic tank.
Did You Know?
A septic system provides
essential bacteria with the
proper home, giving them
the right environment in
which to live.
Why This Guide?
Brooklin Concrete has been manufacturing precast
concrete products since 1952. In fact, we are a leading
producer of quality concrete septic and holding tanks
in Ontario. This brochure is meant to provide you with
useful information on how to choose, upgrade and
maintain a healthy and effective septic system.
Wh
y Th
is G
uid
e?
The Effluent Filter
An effluent filter will be installed
on the outlet of your septic tank.
It guarantees that no solids enter
your secondary treatment system.
This filter is important, because if
solids plug the secondary treatment
system, it will need to be replaced.
FAST® Sewage Wastewater
Treatment Systems – Reliable
and Economical.
FAST® is the revolutionary wastewater
treatment system that utilizes only nat-
urally occurring micro-biological activities
to metabolize all organic waste matter
from households, recreational properties
and commercial facilities.
FAST® treatment modules contain no
submersible pumps, screens, filters or
moving parts to repair, replace or clean.
The only output from a FAST® system
is CO2 and clear, odorless water.
FAST® has been tested, approved and
certified by environmental authorities
across Canada, the US and around
the globe.
The MicroFAST’s only mechanical device
is its high quality air lift pump. The air
pump is housed below grade, outside
the treatment module itself and
doesn’t require oil or lubrication.
Its reusable air intake filter is easily
cleaned off twice a year.
The Septic Tank
Septic tanks do the main storage
and filtration work of septic systems.
The bacteria in the tank treat the
majority of sewage solids and nearly
all grease from household wastewater.
Each tank is made up of two chambers:
the first measuring two-thirds of the
tank; the other measuring one-third.
The large chamber does most of the
treatment, while the second chamber
assures full treatment before the
effluent leaves the tank.
The Secondary Treatment System
Secondary treatment systems come
in many forms. Over the last few years,
many new technologies have been
proven and approved:
Weeping or Leaching Bed
This traditional system consists of a
network of perforated pipes installed
in trenches in a bed of stone. Under
the lawn, the semi-treated effluent from
the septic tank trickles into these pipes
and into a stone bed where helpful
bacteria and other soil organisms
complete the breakdown of the effluent.
The treated water then evaporates,
filters back into the groundwater, or is
used by the grass in the lawn. In order
for the bacteria to work efficiently the
lawn area must be allowed to breathe.
Infiltrator™
This newer system is a direct replace-
ment to the pipe used in a weeping
or leaching bed. The Infiltrator has a
very large water and air capacity,
and does not require a stone bed.
Filter Bed
This small weeping bed is built into
sand that is brought to the site. It is
ideal for residential or cottage
properties where there is not enough
soil for a standard weeping bed.
Typical Parts of a Septic System:
• Septic tank
• Effluent filter
• Secondary treatment
system (weeping or
leaching bed or
other options)
• Pump system (only
needed if your septic
system is uphill)
Selecting the Proper System
The best advice we can
give you is to:
1. Obtain a permit and
get detailed instructions
for your job from your
local authorities.
2. Choose a quality tank,
filter and accessory parts.
3. Use a licensed installer.
Inside the Tank
Wastewater and solids enter the first
chamber of the septic tank where a
sediment layer, liquid layer and top layer
(or "crust") form in a healthy tank. Over
time, the bacteria will do their best to
break down all of the solids. The solids
that can’t be broken down will build up
in the sediment layer. The septic tank
should be pumped every few years to
remove the build up of sediment.
The Septic System
The
Sep
tic
Syst
em
Safe
ty &
Mai
nte
nan
ceSafety & MaintenancePermit Protocol
Septic systems are under the
control of the Ontario Building
Code. You must have a permit
to install one. Your municipal
building department will
advise you as to what type
of system you can install.
In some cases, a septic
system is not permitted at
all. An alternative may be
a holding tank.
When to Upgrade:
1. When a regular inspection
identifies the need for
upgrades to any aspect
of your system.
2. When the installation of
additional plumbing or
bathrooms may put stress
on your existing system.
(If you will be adding
additional plumbing,
it’s a good idea to get
a contractor to check out
your existing system’s
capacity.)
3. If you are unsure about
what upgrading may
involve, give Brooklin a call.
Our qualified professionals
are happy to help.
How to Avoid System Hazards
If you disturb the natural balance of
what goes into your septic tank, or
misuse or overwork your septic system,
problems can arise. The following are
a few pointers to help you avoid any
future difficulties:
I) If something doesn’t break down
naturally, it shouldn’t go into a
septic tank:
1. Avoid putting grease down the drain.
Septic systems can be damaged by
oils, grease and fat. Dispose of these
with the garbage.
2. Chemicals such as paint, solvents,
bleach or strong cleaning agents,
should not be washed down the
drain. They will hamper the growth
of the natural bacteria your septic
system needs to do a proper job.
3. Diapers or feminine hygiene products
shouldn't be flushed into your septic
system. Also be conservative about
the amount of toilet paper used.
4. A garburator can place unnecessary
strain on your septic system.
For kitchen waste, use the garbage
or a composter if possible.
5. Avoid pouring septic tank cleaners
or starters into your septic system.
Some may destroy useful bacteria,
while others may flush septic solids
into the drainage field.
II) Conserve water to allow your system
to treat waste efficiently:
The less you pour, drain or flush into
your septic system, the better your
system will perform. The more time
your system has to work on each litre
of waste, the more effectively each litre
of wastewater will be treated.
III) Don’t overwork your system:
1. Think ahead about the size of the
septic system you will ultimately need.
Allow for some extra capacity to
meet possible future requirements.
Will you be adding a dishwasher,
additional toilets, showers or a hot tub?
The more you plan for, the easier
it will be to accommodate future
needs without having to upgrade.
2. If you have a septic system at a cottage
or seasonal property, remember that
the tank can become dormant if it
isn’t used for a long period. For
instance, after the winter months
it’s best to begin using your system
gradually for a few weeks before
hosting a large cottage gathering.
Too much material flushed into a
dormant system can cause untreated
solid material to flow into the
drainage field, possibly clogging it.
IV) Protect your Septic System:
1. Don’t allow your septic system to
freeze since bacteria need to be
warm in order to work. Insulating
the top of your tank with poly-
styrene can help keep it warm in
order to work more efficiently
in cold weather.
2. Do not drive cars, snowmobiles or
heavy machinery over your septic
bed. The tank and surrounding pipes
can be damaged by excessive weight
and packing snow over the weeping
bed allows frost to penetrate.
3. The drainage field around your system
is also doing an important job. Don’t
plant near it because the deep root
systems of many trees and shrubs
can plug or damage the system’s pipes.
4. Ground water and runoff from roofs,
patios and driveways should be
directed away from the septic tank
and weeping bed.
A reminder:
Don’t put anything down
the drain that could harm
the bacteria at work in your
septic system, such as paint
or chlorine bleach.
Concrete Solutions
Most septic tanks are
precast concrete. For many
years, concrete tanks have
proven to provide excellent
performance in an econom-
ical structure. These tanks
are shipped directly to
the installation site by the
manufacturer and set in
the hole with truck–mounted
cranes. The balance of the
septic system is typically
installed by a certified
installer.
Septic systems are not difficult
to maintain; however, potential
problems can result from incorrect
installation, poor maintenance
or household misuse.
Safe
ty &
Mai
nte
nan
ce
Smart Maintenance
The importance of maintaining your
septic system can’t be stressed enough.
A failing system can be a health hazard
to your family, especially if your water
source becomes contaminated.
Malfunctioning systems can pollute
the environment and be costly to repair.
1. Install an effluent filter. It’s a necessary
safeguard since it will warn you
if your system needs attention.
2. Have your septic tank inspected
every three to five years. A licensed
pumping contractor should inspect
your septic system, pumping it out
when required. Remember there are
two pumpout hatches on your tank.
3. Have your system pumped out in
summer or early fall if possible.
This leaves time for your tank to
refill and bacterial action to become
reestablished before the winter.
4. Follow the guidelines in the How to
Avoid System Hazards section of
this brochure.
Warning Signs
If you notice any of the problems
below, act fast. A neglected system
can present both health and
environmental hazards, as well
as be expensive to repair.
Watch for:
1. Wet spots or grey or black liquids
in your yard
2. Unusually green or spongy grass
over the septic system
3. Slow drainage of toilets or drains,
or liquids in drains backing up
4. Gurgling sounds in your drain
5. Sewage odours, especially after
a rainfall
Who You Need to Call
1. The law requires you to report any
septic system problems to your
local Building Department before
starting repairs.
2. Once you have been given approval
by the Building Department, call
a licensed contractor. Repair costs
vary depending on the extent
of the problem. Ask the contractor
to come and inspect your system
and provide a written estimate
before proceeding with repairs.
Other Brooklin Products
Landscape Products
• Landscape Slab Systems
• Retaining Wall Systems
• Curbs, Edgings and Steps
• Interlocking Paving Stones
• Roof Ballast Pavers
Specialty Products
• Deck Foot
• Storage Sheds
• Well Tile
Utility Products
• Grade Adjustment Rings
• Electrical Utility Boxes
• Chambers for the Fiber Optic
and Cable Industries
Our Commitment to You
Brooklin Concrete is committed
to manufacturing quality precast
concrete products. In operation since
1952, Brooklin is a leading producer
of concrete septic and holding tanks
in Ontario.
All Brooklin septic tanks are manufac-
tured to meet or exceed the Ontario
Ministry of the Environment Regulations,
Ontario Building Code Reg. 403/97 and
CSA B66 for private sewage systems.
Brooklin Concrete is a member of
the Concrete Precasters Association
of Ontario and The National Precast
Concrete Association.
Septic SystemAccessory Products
• Holding Tanks
• Pumping Chambers
• Aerobic Systems
• Syphons
• Distribution Boxes
• Submersible Effluent
and Sewage Pumps
• Liquid Level Controls and Alarms
• Duplex Pump Systems and Controls
• Weeping Bed Pipes and Fittings,
and Infiltrator™ components
• Septic Manhole Risers
Brooklin septic and
holding tanks come
in a variety of sizes,
ranging from 2,700 L
(600 Gal.) to 30,000 L
(6,700 Gal.) capacity.
Before You Get Started
1. Note that Excavation
Dimensions refer to the
minimum sizes required
for the installation of
your septic tank. If the
inlet pipe from the
building is not in place
when excavating, add
approximately 8 in. (20 cm)
to the "overall height"
measurement for total
depth of the excavation
from finished grade.
2. Your local building depart-
ment can tell you what
size of tank to install
and the configuration
recommended for a
secondary system.
3. When selecting a system,
remember to think to the
future. If you feel your
needs may expand, sizing
your system appropriately
today will eliminate a
major upgrading expense
in the future.
About Our Products
Ab
out
Our
Pro
duc
ts
